Not being a fan of the 'talking heads' approach to musical docs, this film is an exception due largely to the quality of those offering commentary, including Joe Boyd, Robbie Krieger & Roger McGuinn, to mention a few, as well as numerous folklorists who've dedicated their lives to carrying the torch for Leadbelly's music and place in American culture. This effort sure beats the usual suspects (music critics) who are farther removed from the subject. Family descendants and associates with personal recollections of the man are also invaluable.
The only downside is that the musical excerpts are too brief, averaging a 20 second or less snippet (albeit accompanied by appropriate archival film images). And when they segue from Leadbelly's version to a newer version (Van Morrison, esp.), the attempts pale in comparison. But those tastes served up by the master will no doubt entice listeners to seek out the real thing. They'll be glad that they did.
The only downside is that the musical excerpts are too brief, averaging a 20 second or less snippet (albeit accompanied by appropriate archival film images). And when they segue from Leadbelly's version to a newer version (Van Morrison, esp.), the attempts pale in comparison. But those tastes served up by the master will no doubt entice listeners to seek out the real thing. They'll be glad that they did.
